Translation guide
The concept of maintaining interpersonal space, both physically and psychologically, to regulate closeness and formality in social interactions.
The literal physical space kept between people in social situations, often to avoid discomfort or follow cultural norms.
The direct translation, commonly used in public health and sociological contexts. It refers to the physical space maintained between individuals.
感染予防のために社会的距離を保ってください。
Please maintain social distance to prevent infection.
The loanword from English, widely used during the COVID-19 pandemic. It specifically refers to physical distancing measures.
ソーシャルディスタンスを確保しましょう。
Let's ensure social distance.
A natural Japanese phrase meaning 'to keep distance'. It can be used for physical distancing in everyday situations.
人混みでは距離を取るようにしている。
I try to keep my distance in crowds.
The sense of emotional detachment or formality in relationships, often to maintain boundaries or show respect.
Literally 'to place distance', this is the most common way to express creating emotional or psychological space in a relationship.
彼とは少し距離を置くことにした。
I decided to put some distance between me and him.
Means 'to draw a line', implying setting a clear boundary in a relationship, often to maintain formality or avoid over-familiarity.
仕事とプライベートは一線を引いている。
I draw a line between work and private life.
Describes behaving in a distant, cold, or standoffish manner. It implies a deliberate emotional distance.
彼女は最近よそよそしくしている。
She has been acting distant lately.
The use of polite language and behavior to maintain appropriate distance based on social status, age, or familiarity.
Using honorific language (keigo) is the primary way to express social distance in Japanese. It shows respect and maintains formality.
上司には敬語を使わなければならない。
You must use polite language with your boss.
Not using casual speech (tameguchi) is a way to maintain social distance. It implies keeping the relationship formal.
先輩にはタメ口を使わない方がいい。
It's better not to use casual speech with your seniors.
距離を取る (kyori o toru) is used for physical distance, while 距離を置く (kyori o oku) is used for emotional or psychological distance. Mixing them up can cause confusion.
The English phrase 'social distance' is often translated literally as ソーシャルディスタンス, but this is mainly used in the context of disease prevention. For interpersonal relationships, use 距離を置く or other expressions depending on the nuance.
Describes behavior that is overly formal or distant, as if treating someone like a stranger. It can be used to criticize excessive social distance.
そんな他人行儀な話し方はやめてください。
Please stop talking so formally, like we're strangers.